Must Visit Places in Maine

June 17, 2015

Old Orchard Beach

Known for its wide sandy beach and carnival-like atmosphere, Old Orchard Beach has much to offer, including ample shops, activities, and festivals. Among the top attractions at Old Orchard Beach is The Pier. This 500-foot (150 meter) wooden walkway extends out into the Atlantic Ocean and is filled with a variety of souvenir shops, food stands, restaurants, and nightclubs. Palace Playland is another top attraction, particularly for young visitors, who will enjoy roller coasters, fireworks, and carnival games while at this beachfront amusement park. During the summer, Old Orchard Beach boasts a music festival, fireworks, chowder fests, and a hot air balloon festival.

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park boasts an array of activities for visitors of all tastes. Among the popular activities include scenic drives, hiking, and camping. Many visitors also enjoy taking a ferry ride out to the nearby islands. Sea kayak tours, windjammer tours, and fishing charters are also great ways to explore the nearby coast. Oceanside picnic areas provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing lunch. A favorite hike is the 45-minute climb up Mount Battie, which offers exquisite views of the surrounding wooded hillsides, lakes, Penobscot Bay, and Camden Harbor. The park is open from mid-May through mid-October.

Kennebunkport

Known for its historic homes dating back to the 18th century, Kennebunkport is located in southern Maine and offers an array of attractions to explore. The epicenter of activity is Dock Square lined with cafes, art galleries and upscale boutiques. Kennebunkport is also home to one of the biggest beaches in the region. Grand mansions and hotels overlook the surf, including the massive George Bush Sr compound on a protected spit of land called Walker’s Point. Numerous bed and breakfast inns are also situated throughout Kennebunkport and nearby Kennebunk, making it easy for visitors to find accommodations.

Portland, Maine

From ornate mansions to ocean views, Portland is a charming city (the largest in Maine) that offers an eclectic array of attractions. Visitors to Portland may enjoy walking down the cobblestone streets of the revitalized Old Port District or explore the city’s many unique boutiques, shops and art galleries. Portland is also well known for its local breweries as well as breathtaking views of Casco Bay and the surrounding islands. Since Portland is a seaport town, there are many types of water-based activities to enjoy, such as whale watching trips, lobster boat tours, fishing trips, ferry cruises, and more.

Bar Harbor

Situated on the northeast shores of Frenchman Bay, the bustling town of Bar Harbor is the largest community on Mount Desert Island. A variety of activities is on tap at Bar Harbor, including shopping at a myriad of quaint shops, boutiques, and galleries. Visitors will also find an excellent selection of restaurants. Other popular attractions include the Bar Harbor Historical Society, Abbe Museum, and Asticou Azalea Gardens. Bar Harbor is also conveniently located near Arcadia National Park, making it an ideal base for visitors to the park. Summer and fall tend to be the most popular times to visit Bar Harbor.

Acadia National Park

Boasting pristine views and abundant wildlife, Arcadia National Park is the only national park in all of New England. Here, visitors are able to enjoy boundless opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, biking, or enjoying scenic vistas. The carriage road system that winds its way through Arcadia National Park was originally developed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and offers many excellent points of interest. An Island Explorer bus makes its way through the park, making it easy for visitors to enjoy all of the park’s many scenic views. Among the most popular drives in Arcadia is Park Loop Road, which boasts multiple scenic overlooks.